What Do Rats Look Like?
In Colorado, homeowners most often encounter three types of rats: wood rats, Norway rats, and roof rats. Each species has unique habits, appearances, and preferred habitats, which influence how they may enter your home and the risks they pose. Knowing these differences is the first step to identifying which type is nearby and taking the right steps to keep your home safe.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Colorado Rats FAQs
Also known as pack rats, wood rats are common in Colorado, especially in areas near rocky terrain. They are slightly larger than house mice and have:
- A furry tail
- Large ears and big black eyes
- Grayish-brown fur
Activity: Most active at night but can be seen foraging at dusk.
Risks: Wood rats carry diseases and are destructive inside homes, chewing wires, insulation, drywall, and pipes.
Norway Rats
Norway rats are stocky, brown or gray rodents with coarse fur and a tail shorter than their body. They are excellent diggers and often make burrows in the ground, under sheds, or along building foundations.Nests: Norway rats prefer dark, sheltered areas, such as basements, crawl spaces, and wall voids. They often line their nests with shredded paper, insulation, and other materials they gather.
Activity: Mostly nocturnal, but sometimes active during the day if food is scarce.
Risks: Norway rats are carriers of diseases such as leptospirosis and salmonella, and can contaminate food and damage structures by chewing and gnawing.
Roof Rats
Roof rats, also known as black rats, are slimmer than Norway rats, characterized by their long tails and large ears. They often have a black or dark brown coat.
Nests: These rats prefer high places—attics, rafters, and trees—and build nests out of shredded materials. Roof rats are excellent climbers and rarely stay on the ground.
Activity: Primarily nocturnal.
Risks: Roof rats can carry diseases and contaminate stored food. Their climbing ability means they can cause damage to wiring, insulation, and ceilings.- Mechanical traps
- Natural and EPA-registered baits
- Electronic rodent control systems
- Customized control plans
- Seal Entry Points: Close gaps around doors, windows, vents, chimneys, and the roof line. (Learn more about Enviro Guard!)
- Eliminate Food Sources: Secure trash, pet food, and bird feeders.
- Remove Shelter: Keep storage areas organized and eliminate debris piles near your home.
- Ongoing Protection: Sign up for home pest control services that feature digital rodent monitoring.
